British island legalises assisted dying on 'historic and emotional day'
Bereaved families have celebrated after the Isle of Man became the second Crown Dependency to legalise assisted dying. Historic legislation received Royal Assent on Tuesday following years of campaigning by locals including Sue Biggerstaff, 66. Her husband Simon died from MND in May 2022. She said: “Simon would have been eligible under this law, and I know he would have wanted the choice.
TL;DR
- The Isle of Man has legalized assisted dying, becoming the second Crown Dependency to do so.
- The legislation received Royal Assent following years of campaigning by locals.
- The law allows assisted dying for adults who have lived on the island for at least five years, have a terminal illness with a life expectancy of 12 months or less, and have a clear intention to end their life.
- This move is seen as a significant victory for bereaved families and campaigners advocating for end-of-life choices.
- Jersey also legalized assisted dying earlier in the year, creating a contrast with England and Wales where similar bills have faced rejection.